Unstable Brazil star Neymar blunders badly at Metlife in New Jersey

Take your points and the goals will come - Colombia keeper David Ospina offers his condolences to a nauseous-looking Neymar after his penalty miss

Neymar blamed the playing surface after the Brazil forward missed a penalty against Colombia with an effort which bore more resemblance to an American football field goal in a friendly international which was, aptly enough, staged at the shared home of the New York Jets and New York Giants NFL teams.

"The penalty was horrible but you probably noticed the state the pitch was in, it didn't have any stability," the 20-year-old told Brazilian media after the 1-1 draw.

"I tried to take it slowly but it didn't work out...these things happen."

Brazil coach Mano Menezes agreed with his forward.

"The pitch had an influence. It made the match more difficult for the whole 90 minutes," he said.

"It's an atypical situation which doesn't even merit a comment. He will get over this."

Colombia were the first to settle in New Jersey's Metlife Stadium as they showed why they have been impressing in the World Cup qualifiers so far.

But even as they built up pressure, it was Brazil who created the first clear chance, with Kaka breaking through only to strike the ball against the crossbar.

Colombia snatched the lead just before half time when James Rodriguez crossed for Juan-Guillermo Cuadrado, and his shot went in off the right-hand post.

Brazil were much improved in the second half and set about attacking David Ospina's goal.

The Colombia goalkeeper had to be alert to keep out Neymar's effort on the hour mark after the forward had beaten three defenders.

But only three minutes later, Neymar got his goal, beating two before firing beyond the reach of Ospina.

He was handed the chance to win it 11 minutes from time when Pablo Armero fouled Daniel Alves in the penalty area and the referee blew for a spot-kick, only for Neymar to blaze over.

Brazil's next match pits them against Argentina in Buenos Aires next Wednesday, with only players who play in their domestic leagues eligible for selection.